Jean Jaures 



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I A D R A M A I 

I In Three Acts | 

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By 
JOSEPHSON 

With biographical notes after "The Life and 

Work of Jaures" in French 

of Charles Rappoport 



A PORTRAIT OF JAURES 



New York. PROGRESS PUBLISHING CO. 1917 




JEAN JAURES 



JEAN JAURES 



A DRAMA 

IN THREE ACTS 

By 
JOSEPHSON 

Hfith biographical notes after "Tlje I^ife ami 

W«rk of Janres" in French 

•f Charles Rappoport 

A PORTRAIT OF JAURES 



New Y«rk PROGRESS PUBLISHING CO. 1917 






G>PYRIGHT, 1 91 7 



4f- 

OCT 24 1917 

TiMP9e-G06430 



Jean Jaures 



CAST OF CHARACTERS. 

Jaures. 

Lambert, veteran of the Franco-Prussian war of 1870, a 
salesman, 65 years of age. 

Annette, daughter of Lambert, wife of Gaston Rapin. 

Leon, their son, 16 years of age. 

CONSPIRATORS AGAINST JAURES— 

Gaston Rapin, Lieutenant of the Reserve, assistant 
editor of the daily "Le Patriote." 

Callet, editor-in-chief of "Le Patriote." 

KosLOFF, Russian secret agent in the service of the 
Russian Ambassador. 

Graham, English agent in the service of the English 
Minister. 

Antonio^ Italian agent in the service of the Italian Minister. 

Mme. Chabot, wife of the Minister Chabot. 

Marie, Servant in the home of Lambert. 

Gaspard, her fiance, a soldier. 

Perin and Poilu, waiters at the Restaurant "Croissant." 

Ninette, Premier danseuse in "Maxim's," and other girls 
of the ballet. 

Charles and Laurens, journalists employed in " Le 
Patriote." 

People, guests at the "Croissant." 

The scenes are laid in Paris. The time of the occur- 
rence is before the second of August, 1914, the beginning 
of the war, except for the third tableau in the third act, 
which happens one year after the declaration of peace. 



Jean Jaures 



A FEW REMARKS BY THE AUTHOR. 

On the morning of the 31st of July, 1914, the hand of 
a blind fanatic ended tlie life of a man endowed with the 
highest intellectual powers and a most sincere love for all 
Mankind. 

This dastardly crime stood in intimate relation with, 
and was the forerunner of the present epoch of fratricidal 
horror which has caused the overflow of the bloody cup 
from which occidental rulers have so often drunk since 
the inception of their regimes. 

There is no doubt that the responsibility for this catas- 
trophe rests upon the shoulders of those statesmen, that 
press, and those writers who have continually indulged in 
intrigues, and systematically published untruthful state- 
ments, misleading articles and books unscrupulously dissem- 
inating them among the people. 

This literature, although very ably edited, so far as 
style and cleverness are concerned, is one of the principal 
causes which were instrumental in bringing about this ter- 
rible disaster, for it abused and debased for mercenary 
reasons the noblest ideals of humanity, namely, true love of 
one's nation, and unselfish devotion to one's country. 

This state of affairs had existed long before the out- 
break of the war, but it reached its climax and developed 
fully its pernicious character during the progress of the 
conflict. Books, newspapers, periodicals and speeches by 
the best known and most admired men, such as B. G. Shaw, 
H. Bergson, Hauptmann, Haeckel, Kipling, Cecil Chesterton, 
Maeterlinck, and others, have sprung up in countless num- 
bers, creating a literature which by virtue of its masterly 
and aesthetic form befuddles the thoughts of the reader and 
detracts his attention from the actual state of terror. 

It is amazing how varied and contradictory are the writ- 
ings on the causes, aims, and results of the present war, how 
the same authors reverse themselves and express, at different 
times, entirely opposing views, and how they endeavor to 
voice their opinions, not because they believe them to be true. 



6 Jean Jaures 

but because they are agreeable to the preconceived notions 
of their readers. Some Authors indulge in all sorts of meta- 
physical speculations on the survival of the soul of the brave 
warriors who fall in battle; the religious writers emphasize 
the faith in the intercession of the saints to Christians, 
to Buddhists they prescribe the doctrine of the transmigra- 
tion of the soul, to Shintoists who prevail among the Japan- 
ese to lay stress on the cult of ancestors who are supposed 
to continue their earthly existence in heaven, and so forth. 
All recipes for our consolation a typical specimen of which 
is the following passage from Maurice MaeterHnck, the 
famous Belgian mystic and poet. Here is what he says : 

"Death does not cut into life; it can do nothing 
against life. The total amount of life remains always 
the same. That which death takes from those who fall 
enters into those who remain standing. If the number 
of lamps diminishes, the light of the flame rises. Death 
gains nothing as long as any life exists. The more rav- 
ages it effects, the more it increases the intensity of the 
life it does not touch ; the more it pursues its illusory 
victory, the better it proves to us that humanity will 
end by conquering it." 

Not less characteristic of our times is the precipitation 
of an avalanche of poetry breathing the basest animal 
instincts of hatred, bloodshed and lust for revenge, from the 
pen of literateurs like Rost/and, Kipling, D'Annunzio, Lis- 
sauer and others of lesser importance. 

G. B. Shaw now urges a "Fight to a Finish," having 
formerly been persistent in his denunciation of warfare. At 
one time an advocate of Irish freedom, he is now making 
light of the martyrs of the Irish Revolution of 1916, one of 
the few bright episodes in these darkest of times. 

Bergson champions the destruction of everything Ger- 
man, and bases his "theory" on the result of his investiga- 
tions — that all German professors in all German universities 
have been preaching war. 

On the other hand, German intellectuals, like Haupt- 
mann, Haeckel, Sudermann and others, have written essays 
and poems denouncing in venomous language the nations 
now at war with the Central Powers. 



Jean Jaures 7 

What is true of France, England, Russia, Germany and 
the other nations is also true of the United States. Here, 
too, there is a group, not large, but very powerful and 
malicious, utilizing the Press and other agents of propaganda 
to brand as traitors and vilify men of indisputable integrity, 
just because they raise their voices for peace. What this 
bellicose group is aiming at is the enforcement and preserva- 
tion of its power which is so luringly named "Democracy." 
In reality, this group is nothing less than an oligarchy com- 
posed of the capitalistic and military elements who, just as 
the old autocratic rulers, disregard the law if it conflicts with 
their own selfish interests, the welfare of the people under 
their regime, being only incidentally, if at all, involved. 

Even some of the Socialist leaders who before have 
slyly crept to the hearts of the class conscious worker and 
made him believe they were representing him, have suddenly 
turned warriors, more ferocious than the rest. 

William English Walling, Charles E. Russell, Ernest 
Poole are among the loudest and most verbose of patriots. 
They are all men to whom Socialism had always been a fad, 
a sort of novel pastime on a higher intellectual plane than 
their usual occupations. It was worth their while as long as 
it did not demand their active participation and complete 
moral support of its principles. No sooner were our friends 
called upon to practice the ideas they preached, than they 
failed to respond, and not modestly, as becomes contempla- 
tive minds lacking the energy to act heroically in a critical 
moment, but with clamorous uproar they have called upon 
the government to indict for treason their former comrades, 
for their peace utterances — those very comrades with whom 
they have been working hand in hand for many years. 

Can any one find in the whole world similar types of 
such base cowardice? If rebuked, they will point to their 
writings and speeches on Socialism as proofs of the work 
they have done for the movement. They forget, however, 
that the ideals and principles embodied in tlieir writings, 
were entrusted to them by those sincere and great leaders 
who sacrificed their fortunes and their lives in the struggle 
against exploitation and enslavement of the worker. 

These Socialist war agitators proved themselves slack- 
ers in the maintenance of the ideals and principles of the 



8 Jean Jatires 

great masters, who had never intended their teachings for 
men who would dally and sport with literature and ideals 
in such a manner as to become the object of newspaper 
gossip and cheap sensation. 

The mask having been torn off their face, the people 
feel so much better to see the grain sifted clean from the 
chaff which shall be blown to the winds in order that the 
latter may disappear forever from among the true and self 
sacrificing radicals. 

This is one example of many, especially numerous 
among the intellectuals where prevails a general inconsis- 
tency, a reeling from one side to the other as if drunk by the 
craze of the age — War. One day a prophetic message of 
peace and brotherhood of all mankind will be launched, the 
following day a series of essays in very fine rhetoric, replete 
with historic proof and data purporting to convince the lay 
reader of the biological and higher moral necessity of war. 

Amidst all this confusion, the memory of Jean Jaures 
stands out like an oasis in a desert, the sole hope of this 
sinking world, sustaining the courage of the few who love 
and cherish the ideals he taught. 

Jaures will remain immortal, together with all those 
heroic characters who gave their lives in the struggle for 
economic independence and peace for all hum.an kind. Such 
men, though, stand ever in the way of existing governments 
whose interests and tendencies are diametrically opposed 
to the welfare of the governed. 

An able statesman nowadays is one who will uphold 
existing conditions at any price and who, urged on by an 
unbounded ambition, will, even at the cost of his own head, 
persist, in order to prolong the unbalanced state of society 
wherein the people must work, and the dominating class 
enjoy the fruits of labor. 

Jaures was always the most dangerous enemy of the 
dominating classes of all nations, and always fought their 
underhand methods and the so-called "secret diplomacy." 

This secret diplomacy, nothing but an ornamental de- 
nomination which hides the basest and most criminal acts, 
and with which are identified men of the highest ranks in the 



Jean Jaures 9 

governmental caste, employed, as I shall show in the play, 
the most questionable characters to conspire against, and end 
the life of Jean Jaures. This crime was committed not by 
an assassin in a typical murderer's garb, but by tlie well- 
mannered, intellectual, smooth - tongued, silk - eloved and 
f rocked gentlemen of the latest fashion. 



New York, ist of July, 1917. 




Jean Jaures ii 



Abel {very faintly). What is he who speaks of 
Gk»d? 

Cain. Thy murderer. 

Abel. Then may God forgive him! Cain, comfort 
poor Zillah; she has but one brother now. {Ahel dies.) 

Byron's Cain. 

ACT I. 

Scene i. 

Editor's office of the newspaper "Le Patriote" ; a door 
on the left; another door at rear of stage; through large 
7iinndotvs in back of office a square is seen surrounded by 
buildings and animated by people in the street. 

Callet, Rapin, Laurens, Charles all sitting at their desks, 
Callet occupying the center. 

Callet {calling). Mr. Qiarles, Mr. Laurens. {They 
arise and approach Callet.) Please see that two articles 
be inserted in tomorrow's issue, one on the first page, the 
other on the third, exposing the hypocrfgy of Jaures . . . 
from unquestionable sources. ... I know his private 
life not to be one of simplicity and atheism, as he preaches, 
but a luxurious and religious life. In writing you must 
use your imagination and strongest terms to unmask this 
sham radical. Mr. Rapin, will you give the gentlemen the 
material to work on? 

Rapin rises, takes out some papers and shows them 
to Laurens and Charles. 

Rapin. You see the intentions of this man are all 
directed towards getting popularity. The government will 
soon have to come before the financiers for loans to 
strengthen our Army and Navy: this is of the greatest 
importance for the future of France; and here is this man 
interfering. Don't you think so? (Laurens and Charles 
both nod in sign of approval.) 

Callet. Please after reading the material to report 
to me what you, Mr. Laurens, will introduce as the essence 
of your attack, and what your's will be, Mr. Charles. 

Charles and Laurens. Very well. (Exit through 
door on left, on zvhich there is a sign "Editorial Rooms.") 



12 Jean Jaures 

Scene 2. 

Rapin. There was a telephone message from Count 
Kosloff ; he's due here at three o'clock. 

Callet. Oh, yes, I'm expecting him. What is agi- 
tating your circle, Rapin? 

Rapin. Well, Chief, it's the heated discussion on the 
income tax, and Minister Chabot, who is its defender and 
champion. Opinions are divided between those who will 
be affected by it, those that will have to pay and those for 
whom the bill does not mean anything, who have nothing 
to fear, with no incomes or incomes too small to be affected 
in case the bill passes the Chamber of Deputies ; but, what 
really heavily depresses those of us who are patriots, are 
the efforts of the Socialists to bring about a union betv\^een 
labor organizations of all countries to oppose any steps the 
government might take to prepare in case of war. . . . 
"The International." In this organization I see great dan- 
ger and fear for the future of France, whose people cannot 
rest until the defeat of 1870 is made good. The nation 
wants it, and it is only the misguided agitator and leader 
who hampers this most holy cause. Exterminate these 
over-radical leaders, and we bring back the people to the 
consciousness of their duty, which is to heal this terrible 
wound on the body of France. 

Callet. Yes, Gaston, my friend ; and in my opinion the 
most dangerous of all is Jaures, a powerful orator, a dema- 
gogue of the first rank, well liked in Germany, and tireless 
in his efforts to strengthen "The International." His ideas 
are always to surrender to Prussia ; he considers Germany 
the best and strongest of nations and urges us to imitate and 
befriend her. We had enough proof of what Prussian 
friendship means. This appealing always to the French- 
man's good heart and enthusiasm for humanity almost cost 
us our existence. High sounding words and incessant 
prayer have never made France what she is. It was to 
bravery on the battle field that this beloved country of ours 
owes its foundation. 

People are gathering in the square as Callet is finishing; 
band is heard playing "The International" march. They 
stop in middle of square and a speaker resembling Jaures 
is seen addressing the crozvd; occasional cheers are heard. 



Jean Jaures 13 

Rapin. Again an anti-militaristic meeting (pointing 
to the crowd outside). What do they want, these fools? 

Callet. They are all inspired by Jaures ; where are our 
patriots to agitate as powerfully as does Jaures? If I were 
younger and my hands steady, I would shoot to death this 
man who brings about tlie ruin of his country; he is dan- 
gerous, very dangerous. The ignorant people believe in 
him. , Should they really have tlie power in their hands, 
France would soon become a province of Prussia. 

Rapin (with vehemence). Oh, no, Mr. Callet, the 
martial spirit of the Frenchmen is not yet dead. The sons 
of the heroes of Tolbiac, Bouvines and Marengo will feel 
all the valor of their glorious fathers revive at the country's 
first call. Jaures and all the others who will attempt to 
bar the way of the defenders of this sacred soil of our fathers 
will pay the penalty of death, were I the only one left 
to exact it. 

Callet. Bravo, my boy. 

Rapin leaves, the z'oice of the speaker from the square 
is plainly heard — it is summer, the middle of July — the 
weather is extremely hot — the office windows are open. 
Callet at his desk seems intensely absorbed in reading. 

Voice of the Speaker. There are only a handful of 
people who want to send us, the millions, to death, for 
benefits only dead men can derive. Therefore we Socialists 
have the right to set ourselves against these leaders who 
for years have been fighting us in the name of the Principles 
of the French Revolution. What have you done, we cry 
in pain, with The Declaration of the Rights of Man — with 
individual freedom? You have trifled with it, left all this 
to the insolence of the military power. 

Ah, I know very well ! And as if I now hear our 
enemies! What? These are Socialists, revolutionists, who 
are busying themselves with righteousness. Yes, we are ; 
we want to abolish the laws that hold sacred the privileges 
of capitalist property — the exploitation of the wage earners 
by the rich' — yes. tear down such laws, and, if necessary, 
through Revolution that shall bring a new order in our life. 
France does not want war — she needs Peace for the immense 
task of Socialist Transformation just as she needed Peace 
for thirty years in order to establish the security of the 



14 Jean Jaures 

Republic. The most decisive proof of peaceful intentions 
that France could give to the world is to join neither Ger- 
many against England, nor England against Germany. We 
.must believe in Peace between Germany and England and 
work for it incessantly and sincerely. The capitalists tell 
us that we are traitors to our country and that patriotism 
consists in the passionate preference for France. This is 
not true. To a Frenchman, patriotism consists in knowing 
France well, her qualities and her defects, her virtues and 
her vices, her lights and her shadows — finally to be able 
to correct her faults, cure her vices, remove her shadows 
in order to aid with the growth of her virtues the general 
progress of humanity. To tell a Frenchman that his duty 
is to passionately prefer France, to a German, Germany, to 
an Englishman, England, to the Italian, Italy, to the Chi- 
nese, China, is to create within all peoples a party struck 
by blindness, injustice and violence. This is, though, the 
formulae of the doctrine of national barbarism. . . The 
"patriots" so-called are those that feed these doctrines — we 
know what for them signifies their country and their patriot- 
ism; social reaction within, hypocritic violence without. I 
tell you, citizens, there is at present but one chance to main- 
tain Peace and the goods of civilization, and that is, that 
the workingmen assemble all their forces with the English, 
Russian, German and Italian workingmen, and unite in one 
powerful force that will prevent this horrible itiisaster. 
Cheers and hand-clapping, with cries of "Down with Mili- 
tarism. Long leave Jaures — general demonstration. 

Callet ostentatiously closes windotv; angry faces and 
gestures seen looking into the office; Callet pulls dozim 
shades. Kosloif enters: after exchange of greetings with 
Callet, makes himself at home. 

KosLOFF. Disgusting, idiotic pack — no such nonsense 
could happen in Russia — here they never get tired. Such 
heat, and that fellow there screams himself hoarse. Never 
were battles won by talking. 

Callet. The people must have their favorite play. It 
doesn't hurt, friend. They follow like the sheep their 
shepherd. In the end they will follow the strongest indi- 
viduals. To-morrow you may see the same popular leader 
now agitating against war, himself a member and advisor 



Jean Jaures 15 

in the war party. Glory is what all are after. You Rus- 
sians have a people who can easily be handled. A Napoleon, 
a Briand are typical of the contrasts in the careers of our 
leaders. In their youth inflamed with the most absurd 
ideas, 'tis only after some years of such useless and unprac- 
tical activity for the people, as well as for themselves, that 
they realize their strength to rule the people. This accom- 
plished, they climb upon the highest rung of the political 
ladder, and let me tell you, no other statesman is qualified 
so well to induce the people to follow the wishes of the 
government, 

KosLOFF. True, Mr. Callet, perfectly true. From the 
Frenchman always come the grandiose, the original, great, 
imexpected. (Callet offers him a seat near his desk.) By 
the way, Mr. Callet, I would like to see what I owe for 
the different publications I inserted in your paper. 

Callet. With pleasure, Count ; here is the statement : 
The German Oppression and the Suffering of the People 
of Alsace-Lorraine, Frcs. looo.cx). The Announcement of 
the Building of Fifty Submarines in German Ports, Frcs. 
200.00. An article by Gustav Del Monte on The Resem- 
blance, Common Characteristics and Aspirations of the 
French and Italian Nations, Frcs. 2000.00. The Murder of 
the Austrian Heir Apparent, a Result of Austrian Misrule 
in Bosnia and Hersogovina, Frcs. 2000.00. An editorial on 
The Efficiency of the English Navy and Its Invincibility, 
Frcs. 4,000.00. Austria's Demands on Little Serbia. Frcs. 
800.00. An editorial on The Hardiness and Natural Resist- 
ance of the Russian Soldier, Frcs. 2000.00. The sum total 
is Frcs. 12000.00. 

KosLOFF (takes out pocket book, counts money on desk; 
Callet pockets it.) Thank you for your services, my dear 
friend ; everything runs to my perfect satisfaction.. Of 
course it's expensive. Callet — it runs into millions. The 
Minister, you know, is very liberal and does not spare any 
money to realize his long-wished-for ideas. He has similar 
articles placed in all the most important newspapers of the 
world, an army of writers and orators are employed, espe- 
cially in France, against pacifists and socialists. He enter- 
tains lavishly, thereby bringing together leaders of different 
opinions, acquainting them, softening their tempers, and so 



i6 Jean Jaures 

makes his views on political affairs acceptable to them. 
Last night there was a grand affair at the Embassy. Our 
favorite, Ninette, and Puzinsky danced marvellously. The 
Minister was most of the time with me, greatly worried 
about Jaures and his pacifist activities. He is aware of the 
danger and several of our men, he told me, are in the club 
of the Cercle National exposing Jaures, and proving to the 
members that this Socialist agitator is the cause of the 
indifference of the French people towards the policy of 
the nation to free from German slavery your brothers of 
Alsace-Lorraine. 

Callet. I can assure you I have full confidence in 
the Minister. Nothing will escape his notice; a brilliant 
mind. By the way, Count, let us meet at Maxim's to-night. 
We will see Ninette there. Isn't she a jolly companion? 

KosLOFF. I adore her, don't you? Oh,, somewhat 
expensive. I'll surely be there at eleven o'clock. I am 
awaiting Mr. Graham and Mr. Antonio. They will soon 
be here. We want to discuss the situation together and 
have you hear their opinions on the methods to be followed 
in our propaganda. You know them, Callet ; what do you 
think of them? 

Callet. Antonio, Graham ? Certainly I do, colleagues 
of mine. Clever fellows, and you can entrust them with 
anything. They are serious and they mean business. 

KosLOFF. Friend, but they are also somewhat expen- 
sive. 

Callet. 'Tis worth every bit; they deserve it. I 
know what they can do. Clever .at organizing and executing 
an idea, tireless workers. 

Kosloff. The Minister follows closely your publica- 
tions on military affairs and greatly praised them before us. 
All he wants now is a continuous attack in the press of all 
pacifists and conciHatory tendencies. He first wants to 
see Jaures placed in safety. This man is too active and too 
influential. All great personalities in the government agree 
that Jaures can accomplish things that will seriously interfere 
with French and Russian co-operation. Graham and An- 
tonio, you may know, are confidential agents of their embas- 
sies, and you shall hear from them the corroboration of my 
Minister's ideas. Now is the time. The Cercle National 



Jean Jaures 17 

is enraged against Jaures, and I can assure you that the 
end of this vain and ambitious man will come from there. 

Callet {smiling). You are reading my very thoughts. 
Just before you came, I repeated the same thing to Rapin, 
my secretary, a noble and valiant soldier. This brave son 
of France assured me that Jaures and all others who will 
interfere with our just cause will die at the hands of those 
patriots ready to pay with their heads rather than suffer 
indignities at the hands of Prussia, that monster of civili- 
zation. 

KosLOFF (shrugs his shoulders.) It is only explosions 
of enthusiastic youth. This seldom leads to a practical end. 
At an enemy we must strike directly. (In quiet tones) 
Jaures must be dead before he makes any decisive move. 
We are all convinced that it is in the interests not only of 
France and Russia, but of the entire world. True enough 
Rapin can do it, but how make it certain as to the act to be 
accomplished and the time of its accomplishment? I know 
there is nothing to fear from the government. Everything 
is taken care of. Here. Mr. Callet, are Frcs. 500,000.00 
Do your best, and help bring this patriotic deed to a success- 
ful conclusion. Let us proceed and stop at nothing to save 
the honor of our nations. (Takes out money and puts it 
on the desk.) 

Callet (absorbed in thought, stands up and pockets 
the money.) It's done, Kosloff. (They shake hands.) At 
a dangerous moment Jaures first and his adherents after 
shall be blown to dust. We don't want our countries fol- 
lowing the ideas of Jaures, to go down to destruction for 
the lack of fighting spirit, due to a prevalence of softened 
and lazy individuals, just as the Byzantine and Chinese 
Empires went down following the preachings of societies 
and men of the type of Jaures. 

Bell is heard ringing. Rapin enters and hands letter to 
Callet. 

Rapin. This must be from Mme. Chabot. 

Callet opens the letter and after reading it, hands it 
over to Rapin. 

Rapin (looks at letter.) Mme. Chabot really writes 
a touching letter. She does not wish her love affair with 
the Minister Monsieur Chabot while he was married to 



i8 Jean Jaures 

Madame F. to be thrashed out in the newspapers and used as 
a political weapon against her husband. It is a pity. 

Callet. How else can we expose this man if not witli 
such proofs of hypocrisy. Let the public know the truth 
and they will cease cheering these liberals. The time has 
come when it is dangerous for the nation to let such men 
lead in politics. The letters when read by tlie public will 
tear Chabot down as with dynamite. There will be no 
possibility for the income bill to pass. 

Rapin ( in thought). No other way. He is agamst 
increase in military appropriations, too. The man is impos- 
sible. Full of ambition to lead and cater to the people 
ignorant of the affairs of State. This is the curse of 
democracy. I am sure that the articles we published and 
these love letters that give proof of his miserable character 
will kill his career forever. (Rings bell twice. Charles 
and Laurens enter.) Insert these letters with proper com- 
ment of the character of Deputy Chabot. 

Laurens (looks at letters). Oh! Mr. Rapin, with 
such material at hand, I'll knife him; to the bone. Just 
imagine the hypocrite. 

KosLOFF. This is what I call effective patriotism. 
Extreme vigilance over the iniquity of corrupted public 
servants. You see, it is the same with Jaures, posing as 
pacifist and working for an alliance with Germany. It is 
not, as some will say, a high although impractical ideal. He 
is guilty of profound immorality. It has been proven in 
actual practice and conclusively shown by events of the past 
that such so-called ideals have inspired and aided the com- 
mission of the meanest sins not only against the safety of 
the country, but against the cause of international duty. 
Jaures is for an alliance with Germany. Oh ! what treach- 
ery to the flag of France. 

Bell is heard ringing. Graham and Antonio enter. All 
exchange greetings. Rapin offers seats. 

Graham. Had a splendid time last night at the Em- 
bassy. You Russians certainly have taste. For the height 
of hospitality we must look onlv to Russia. 

Antonio. Lena, the divine Lena. How she sang 
those Russian songs. A child of Italy and sings those 
Russian songs with such expression. I felt m those melo- 



Jean Jaures 19 

dies, in the rendering of those ballads the immensity and 
beauties of the steppes. I must visit Russia and see the 
country. It must be very poetical, fantastic and strange, 
that enormous land, ranging from the coldest to the warmest 
climates, v^ith such varieties of nationalities, each with its 
native customs and all adhering to Russia, that big, loving 
Russia, with its fertile soil, all attached to it as if it were 
a mother. 

KosLOFF. Come, Anton'o, come, friend. A paradise, 
my boy. My mojik is kind, natural; he knows no hatred, 
loves God, the Czar and his country. Once you'll know 
him you'll always love him. 

From the outside cries of 'Long live Jaures. We want 
peace," are heard. 

Graham. Again Jaures. The man Is certainly insane. 
He wants an English, German and French alliance. How 
stupid and preposterous. Does he think that our statesmen 
are asleep. Why, does he not see the enormous military 
power of Germany and the constant increase of military 
appropriations. Tliey threaten the entire world. It is 
nothing short of treason to blind the people at a time when 
all forces must be concentrated to halt the coming invasion 
of the Teutons. We must see that all nations rise against 
this German colossus that threatens to conquer the world 
and dominate it with its steel-mailed fist. And where is 
the most vulnerable point of invasion? Naturally France. 
Does he not see this? Kill him, you foolish Frenchmen, 
before he brings dishonor on your flag. Yes, I mean it ; 
sent him to heaven ; it is there he belongs. 

KosLOFF. Good-by, friends; I must go. I'm thirsty. 

Graham and Antonio. We also will go. 

Graham. Are you coming, Mr. Callet? 

Antonio. Mr. Rapin, come along. 

Rapin. We must attend some office work. I'll meet 
you in the evening at Maxim's. 

Kosloff, Graham and Antonio leave noisily. A few 
moments of silence. Rapin and Callet at their desks. 
From the outside voices of "Down with Delcasse. We 
want peace." Callet raises the shade, the square is peopled; 
it is toivards evening ; some lights in the square are already 
noticed. 



2Q Jean Jaures 

Callet. All these imbeciles in the mob are the dupes 
of Jaures. We must put an end to his activities. Were I 
certain of success, I would not hesitate a moment to strike 
the blow. No more patriotic act was ever done by any man. 
Here Gaston, take these 200,000 francs and make what use 
you find necessary of this amount, and if necessary ill 
supply you with some more funds. I will finance all move- 
ments to bring about the silencing of Jaures forever. For 
God's sake you shall not suflfer anything. Everything is 
arranged so that no harm will reach you. 

Rapin (deeply moved, rises suddenly and exclaims). 
No I shall not touch any money. I don't need it. At that 
crucial moment when I will see the nearing of the success 
of Taures, the alliance of France with Germany or a visible 
and decisive victory of the ''International" I will strike at 
him. Is it anything, after all, to give one s life for trance.'' 

Bell is heard ringing; Charles enters zvith a card. Lal- 

let shows it to Rapin. n ^^ *■ 

Charles. It is a lady who wishes to see you, Mr. Uallet. 
R.\piN. Oh ! Mrs. Chabot. I suppose it is the letters ; 

I'll leave you. t . . *■ 

Callet Wait in the ante-room. I want to go out 
with you. '{Addressing Charles) Tell the lady to step in. 

Rapin and Clmrles leave. 

Mrs Chabot {enters heavily veiled). I beg of you as 
I would a father ; do not drag my family life into the open. 
Tm afraid of the scorn and ridicule of the people. Ihe 
shame and ruin of my children. Pity, Mr. Callet, pity a 
mother. For my guilt I have dearly paid at the mention 
only in your newspaper of my former relations to Mr 
Chabot. And now, the publication of these letters will 
bring disaster on my home. It will kill me. (Sobs violently ) 

Callet I'm sorry, Madame; it is a duty I owe the 
people to expose the character and life of the leaders in 
whom they trust. It is a highly patriotic duty and I would 
consider it a treacherous act on my part not to publish this 
important evidence of your husband's character. 

Madame Chabot. Believe me, it was all my fault. He 
is innocent; you accuse him wrongly. Anything else, but 
not the secrets of my family. 

Callet. No, Madame, they will be published to-mor- 



Jean Jaures 21 

row afternoon. A woman's tears will not help. I am 
wronging nobody. Your husband's ambitions must be dis- 
couraged, otherwise he will become too powerful to suit 
me. These are times when professional pacifists and false 
leaders must disappear from the political arena. We will 
employ all means of getting rid of them, and, I can assure 
you, with just cause. I am a journalist and satisfied with 
my position in society. He wants to climb high ; let him 
climb if he can. No doubt you are anxious to assist him 
in either securing his present rank or help towards his ad- 
vance, hence your visit here, Madame. You cannot. Other 
forces more powerful than you can imagine will not help 
to move me from this decision. The letters will be pub- 
lished tomorrow afternoon, Madame Chabot. 

Madame Chabot. Oh! God! have pity; let me speak; 
have pity ! 

Callet. You have spoken enough ; you cannot make 
me act any differently. I'm here for the good and justice 
of those I represent. With me rests the whole responsi- 
bility. 

Madame Chabot (in rage). You — you are a villain. 
A wild beast, devoid of pity. You reduced my happiness 
to a living hell. You devil in human form. It is by foul 
means you live like the basest coward. You publish lies 
and sell the columns in your newspapers to the highest bid- 
der. Away with you, scum of society. A leach and viper 
whose venom is more deadly than that of the most poisonous 
snake. 

Callet advances to the door, opens and calls for the 
porter, who enters. 

Callet. Take this woman out of here. 

Rapin enters. Madame Chabot, weeping bitterly, is 
escorted out of the office by the porter. As she reaches the 
door she stops suddenly and raising her clenched fist^^ 
she screams. 

Madame Chabot. I will kill you. {Leaves the office.) 

Callet (to Rapin). She became violent, thinking 
probably of frightening me with her hysterical actions. 
What could I really do, were I without this powerful weapon 
of publicity. Such types would always hold us under the 
sway of their power. The affair of Chabot is at an end. 



22 Jean Jaures 

The letters in to-morrow's paper will give him the death 
blow. Think of that. Too big a coward himself, he sends 
his wife, thinking in this manner to influence the editor 
of such a powerful and patriotic newspaper as ours is. 
The principles of our newspapers stand above petty indi- 
vidual patriotism of any sort. I consider our newspaper 
as a patriotic institution, published in the service of France 
and its people, and nothing else. We will write with respect 
of those who love and understand the government, but we 
will do our utmost to expose and destroy the influence of 
those who hate and depreciate the policies of the nation. 
Such another bad influence, and hurtful in the extreme to 
the government, is Jaures, perhaps the worst agitator with 
whom the country was ever threatened. A veritable calam- 
ity endangering the very existence of our nation. It is 
true he is more difficult to handle than was Chabot. He 
has too many admirers ; but I am confident we will get him 
by persistent efforts and the help of you, Gaston, and our 
friends, Graham and Kosloff. We shall soon see the day 
when Jaures will be placed in safety. This must be done 
very soon. The critical time is nearing. 

March music is heard from the distance ; the march of 
the International. 

Callet {pointing to the march.) This is for us more 
dangerous than the whole Teuton army and navy put to- 
gether. Jaures must die before it becomes impossible to 
defeat his anti-war schemes. 

Rapin {goes over to the window.) It seems that all our 
articles against this man do not help. These demonstrations 
are growing hourly larger and larger. Jaures wants to 
rule the people. No, no, this is no time for tolerating his 
vagaries. Germany must be crushed, and unless my love 
for my grand nation has slackened and lost its fire, he will 
not escape me. No, I am watching him in his every move. 
Tt is through many a sleepless night that I lie think- 
ing when and how to wipe out Jaures. God will help me. 

March passes the office outside in the square, with 
cheers of "Long live Jaures." Callet and Rapin leave the 
office together. 

Curtain. 



Jean Jaures 23 



ACT II. 

It is the house of old Lambert. A dining room with 
door and zmndows in the rear looking into courtyard. An- 
other door on right of window opening into kitchen. Door 
on left and door on right of the room. It is the first floor 
of an apartment house. A beautiful summer day in July, 
ipi4, with a brilliant sunshine flooding the room. Marie 
is setting the table. Lambert is seated in an armchair read- 
ing the paper. 

Marie. Is it true, Monsieur? 

Lambert. Yes, true. 

Marie. How could a woman shoot a man and not 
miss? Isn't it wonderful? She must have been practicing 
for some time to be able to kill so sure. Aren't they swell, 
these society ladies? 

Lambert. Don't be surprised, Marie. When the fire 
is kindled in a really brave and good woman, there is nothing 
grand enough and nothing impossible for her to accomplish. 
Madame Chabot is a heroine who showed all those who be- 
smirch and trample on the tenderest feelings of a woman 
the punishment they deserve. There are many more editors 
of the stamp of Callet who thrive and become popular on 
similar and worse crimes. True enough, to kill is wrong; 
but, Marie, this is another chapter in the story. It belongs 
to the programme of modern education. 'Tis the art studied 
in colleges nowadays. 

Marie (looking out through the window.) Oh! Oh! — 
Gaspard is coming — in a soldier's uniform. (Gaspard enters, 
embraces Marie, and greets Lambert.) What is this? Are 
you going to war? 

Gaspard. Maybe. I can't tell you positively. All I 
know, though, is that my regiment is called and it's nothing 
but drilling and drilling all day long. It takes me back 
to my recruiting days. The same nonsense repeated. 

Lambert. You seem to take the whole thing as a joke. 
It's nonsense to you, eh? Yes, I remember just as it would 
be happening to-day ; I also took it jokingly, as you do now ; 



24 Jean Jaures 

but let me tell you, I was painfully disappointed. The suf- 
ferings and the horrors of battles are not as easy to bear 
as you might think; there are times when they are still 
haunting me, and you, Gaspard, a member of the Socialist 
party, an enthusiastic debator against armies, you have 
donned the uniform and are ready to go. Where is your 
conscience? Where is your independence? Are you really 
ready to go to war, you, the internationalist? I can't be- 
lieve it. 

Gaspard. Yes, Monsieur Lambert, and it isn't because 
I want to. You know how much I am opposed to this mili- 
taristic comedy, and how much I despise this science of 
murdering, but if that order comes you know what it means. 
Either compliance with the order, or well, you know the 
rest. 

Lambert. And you throw all your ideals overboard? 
In vain, all useless and futile were all these years of fighting 
in your organizations for freedom, for the world peace, for 
the "International?" All this work in vain? You have 
now dropped everything, loaded your gun, and prepared 
to kill anyone you will be ordered to. For what good ? For 
whom, my unfortunate friend? 

Gaspard. All say, for France, for my country. They 
all say so. What am I to do? 

Lambert. What should you do ? Resist, unite, revolt 
Go with Jaures, the only man who puts his life in the 
extreme effort to stop all these preparations, which, if con- 
tinued, will surely bring us war. He will travel all through 
France and tell every young man and all French mothers 
and fathers to refuse to let their only sons be slaughtered. 
He will travel through Belgium for the same purpose, and 
through Germany for the same purpose. Make the whole 
world rise, wake up, and be ready to shield us from the 
catastrophe that the politicians and the press, bribed by 
Russian, English, and Italian scoundrels, are bringing upon 
us. They cannot stop Jaures, this fighter for the honor, 
virtue and liberty of the whole world. He has an iron 
will, and in his determination to bring about an alliance 
between England, France and Germany he will surely suc- 
ceed. This is his life's work. Oh! how many times has 
this noble soul poured out to me this innermost wish of his 



Jean Jaures 25 

heart! But no, excuse me, I'm talking like an old fool. I 
have not the right to discuss the probability of war as yet. 
No, there will be no war as long as the International and 
Jean Jaures is alive. 

Marie. And if war comes, will you have to go, too, 
Gaspard ? 

Gaspard. Yes, and all you will have to do is not to 
forget me and answer my letters from the battle front. 
Won't you? 

Marie. Don't worry about my answers. I am afraid 
of yours. You know, strange things happen. Some other 
one may strike you as better looking and smarter, more 
suitable to be your wife than poor servant Marie. But 
wait, do you really mean you are going to war? Will you 
go away from me and leave me alone? 

Gaspard. Yes, Marie, and after the war I shall return, 
marry you, fix up a nice, comfortable home and work only 
for my Marie. Isn't that so, Mr. Lambert? 

Lambert. H-m-m. (Shrugging his shoulders.) Yes, 
yes, you may return. 

Marie. And if you do not return, if they kill you, 
what will I do? No, I won't let you go. I cannot remain 
alone. I want to be where you will be, and if you are killed, 
I, too, don't want to live any more. 

Gaspard. Don't fear, Marie, I won't be killed. 

Marie. I'm afraid. Don't go, Gaspard, don't. 

Marie cries vehemently. Lambert and Gaspard go over 
and caress her. 

Lambert. There will be no war, foolish girl. He will 
not have to go. These are just manoeuvres, that is all. 

The singing of a sad melody is heard from the court- 
yard. Marie and Gaspard are looking through the ivindow 
in close embrace, listening attentively to the following song: 
I am weeping, I am longing. 

Since to war you went away, 
And my heart is ever breaking, 

I am sinking day by day. 
All the people are rejoicing. 

Battles have been won galore, 
But to me they bring more sorrow 
And the fear for you still more. 



26 Jean Jaures 

After the termination of the song a bugle call is heard 
afid in marches, with bugle in one hand and the flag in the 
other, Leon, a boy about sixteen, in scout uniform; runs 
over to the old man^ his grandfather, kisses him, and, seeing 
Gaspard, stops in surprise. 

Leon. Gaspard, you in uniform! Are you a soldier? 
How I envy you. (Addressing Lambert.) Oh, grandfather, 
you should have heard Captain Fracasse. How he spoke 
to-day to the class and thrilled us all with descriptions and 
wonderful pictures of bravery in the battles with the Arabs ! 
One incident especially impressed me. While in Morocco, 
commanding his regiment, he watched two of our men as 
they detached themselves from the line. At first it appeared 
strange, but on advancing a few steps they fell on the ground 
and began crawling on their bellies, dragging with them 
laboriously a machine gun up a hillock on that burning 
ground and with that scorching African sun over their heads. 
Slowly and carefully they crawled until they reached the 
summit overlooking the entire plain. Suddenly a detach- 
ment of Arabs was heard galloping in their direction. Our 
boys opened fire and in a few minutes horses and men fell 
to the ground lifeless, adding another glorious day to their 
regiment. 

Lambert. Oh, you foolish enthusiast. Your captain's 
story is not finished. Why did he not tell you how many 
of our boys lost their lives in Morocco, and those poor 
Arabs, what have they done to us? Why kill them? Ask 
the brave Captain Fracasse, ask him why. Let alone thrills 
and spectacular descriptions. Think for yourself. Leon; 
think for yourself. 

Leon. Again the same thing, grandpa ; you know 
father does not like to hear this, especially in such times. 
He just told me to-day that he considered all those who 
spoke against our grand army as traitors to France. The 
Germans are waiting for an opportunity to subjugate us 
and we have to be ready to defend our country. Papa was 
called to the colors, and when he examined his uniform this 
morning I saw tears in his eyes. What is this, grandpa? 
What is this sincere pride in the service for France? What 
is it; tell me? 

Gaspard. All this humane and sensible reasoning is 



Jean Jaures 27 

of no consequence, Mr. Lambert. This false patriotism 
is sucked in with their mother's milk. They start with the 
elementary training and continue all through the schools. 
A systematic teaching of the patriotism of murder. 

Lambert. But we must overcome this savage instinct, 
this evil manifestation of nature, as we overcome the 
destructive power of lightning, the impregnability of moun- 
tains, the death-dealing diseases. It will be a slow work, 
but it will come ; this military organization, this caste system, 
is suitable only for ancient and mediaeval times. The army, 
as Jaures says, should be organized on a democratic basis. 
Everybody, officers and men, should be employed in useful 
activities. They should be one with the life and the aspira- 
tions of the country. The military caste of the Roman 
Empire was one of the main causes of its downfall. The 
Chinese, the oldest nation living, have survived, many other 
nations without any militarism to speak of, France is 
now trying to uphold militarism as a symbol of its power. 
This idea should be uprooted if we want to preserve her 
national strength for ages to come. My dear ones, there 
is a very old Russian legend that tells of a colossal giant 
who wandered over the globe looking for a point of sup- 
port in order to move the earth from its old place, the place 
God set it in at the time of creation. This was the 
ambition of his life. He came to a village where the peas- 
antry, awed by his size and strength, sent out the oldest 
of them to ask him to raise the small sack tliat lay for cen- 
turies back in the middle of a great field, but no one, not 
the strongest ever born to them could even as much as 
move it from its place. The giant smiled at the old man's 
proposition and with proud confidence in his enormous 
strength he marched to the spot where the sack was, fol- 
lowed by the entire village. At first he rediculed the simple- 
minded peasants and proceeded to pull the sack, but there 
was no sign of its moving. Convinced that this task would 
not be as easy as he thought it would, he set his feet firmly 
in the ground and with his utmost force began to pull the 
sack. Thus he continued, exerting every bit of muscular 
power he had, but instead of moving the sack, his feet 
began to bury themselves gradually in the earth. Deeper 
and deeper he sank, until he was completely covered by the 



28 Jean Jaures 

earth. The legend says that on that spot there is now a 
big mountain. 

Annette and Gaston Rapin enter; they greet all; An- 
nette kisses Lambert. 

Lambert. So good of you to come to see the old 
man. I want to hear news, Gaston. You were present at 
the shooting. Did she break down when she was arrested? 

Rapin. A cold-blooded murderess. She will pay with 
her head for this act. Everything we published was true. 
Her husband is robbing the government. We want the 
people to know the whole truth. This is no anarchistic 
state, where everybody can do as he pleases. You should 
have seen my poor chief lying on the floor of the office a 
disfigured cadaver in a pool of blood. He was a man of 
rare intelligence and a patriot of great distinction. 

Annette. I would certainly have done the same as 
Madame Chabot, should any one have interfered in my 
family life. I respect her. 

Rapin. But to you such a thing could never happen. 
She is not a virtuous woman. Didn't she commit a crime 
by conspiring against the former wife of Minister Chabot 
in order to take her place? 

Annette. True enough ; it was a grave mistake, but 
it was forgotten. The world passed it by, and as to the 
innermost secrets hidden in the marital life of Mr. Chabot 
and his first wife, no one can tell. To make political 
capital out of such private affairs is, in my opinion, a serious 
crime that must lead to dangerous consequences. 

Lambert. Oh, these newspapers. There is no limit 
to their meanness and corruption. They infest the entire 
world and are supported plentifully, financed by a base 
and degenerate political clique. Bitter grief wrings my 
soul when I read the daily calumnies against Jaures. This 
honest man, who towers so high above all others. I tell 
you, Gaston, there is no man who works more for the good 
of France than he does. These editors can't understand 
such a man. Their brains are clouded and their hearts 
poisoned by too much good living and debauchery. 

Rapin. You are to be excused. The ideas you enter- 
tain are, to my opinion, the proof of senility on one hand 
and your friendship for Jaures, your comrade, on the other. 



Jean Jaures 29 

Study closer his activities as well as the situation we are 
in at present and you will not speak in such superficial 
terms. You are giving me the same phrases that are to be 
found in all cheap Socialist and Pacifist pamphlets. Noth- 
ing but words showing weakness, which disgusts any one 
who has any red blood running through his veins. The 
love for France should stand above any flowery speeches, 
women's tears, children's wailings or old people's sighs. 
Well, Leon, did you exercise to-day in the military camp? 

Leon. Of course, I reached to-day the highest num- 
ber of correct shots since I began practicing. 

Rapin. There is a proud Frenchman for you, old 
man. This is the new generation, ready, prepared to sac- 
rifice everything for his country. 

Annette. It is nice, this military training, until, God 
forbid, the time comes when he must leave for the front, 
where there is fighting and real danger. Will you, then, 
also talk with such courage? And if we lose this only son 
of ours, what is there left for us? What will France be 
without its youth? The flower of its people? For whom 
her glory, for whom her wealth? 

Rapin. It isn't so, Annette, not to train the youth to 
be brave soldiers is to leave the country an easy prey to 
the invasion of the Prussians. In such case many more 
will be killed, many more destitute, than by a systematic 
preparation for defense. It is true a good many young men 
will be killed, but these brave souls will die with a smile 
on their lips, knowing that they gave their lives in order to 
insure the happiness and safety of their brethren. 

Marie (rushes in.) Mr. Jaures is coming. I saw 
him on my way from the bakery. 

Lambert. Oh, Mr. Jaures never forgets me. Good 
old chap. I'll go out to meet him. 

Rapin. I hate this man. I find no excuse for his 
speaking to the gallery, always interfering, busy, running 
around and preaching dreams and visions. If the public 
would only know what harm he does, they would not be 
so patient with him. They vi^ould kill him. He must stop 
his pernicious agitations. 

Lambert. Because of your prejudice you can't dis- 
cern the just from the unjust, the virtuous from the vicious; 



30 Jean Jaures 

therefore 3'ou cannot appreciate the great and majestic 
personality of Jaures. (Lambert goes out to meet Jaures.) 
Marie, put ever)^hing in order. 

Marie (addressing herself to Annette). What do you 
think of my soldier? He is talking only of going to war, 
and postponing our marriage until after he returns. Isn't 
he cruel? 

, Leon. You ought to be proud ; you will then marry 
a hero, and you will be a heroine, walking on the side of 
a man full of medals for bravery. Especially if he comes 
back without an arm or without a leg. You will be called 
Marie, the wife of the brave Gaspard. 

Marie. This would be the least ; I would not mind 
how crippled he returns. Will he return at all? I can 
work, and will be able to support him. 

Lambert enters zvith Jaures in conversation. Jaures 
greets all. Rapin is reading a nezvspaper. 

Gaspard. Oh, no, a crippled soldier, one who has 
shed his blood for his people should live in comfort all his 
life without cares for his daily existence. You, Marie, 
will not have to work; the government will support us. 

Rapin. What question ! And how you shall live 
royally secure for the rest of your days ! 

Jaures. You have your family with you here. A 
few soldiers, too. (Gaspard goes over to Jaures.) Hello, 
comrade. You are ready. Oh, no, you shall not have to 
go. Unnecessary preparations, friend. Don't you feel 
happy, Lambert, to have so many friends come to see you? 

Lambert. Yes, they come to see the old man some- 
times. True enough, they are opposed to me. They think 
they are wiser, and simply tolerate a senile old man. I 
longed to see you, Jaures ; I had so much to talk to you 
about ; I wanted to look at you again, and see whether you 
really are the monster the conservatives picture you to be. 
Why, lately, they have never stopped barking. You must 
be doing them some harm. All the newspapers are now 
filled with such literature as will agitate and hasten every- 
thing towards the declaration of war. We must order a 
general strike all over Europe. Strike immediately so that 
these barking dogs will have no chance to lead us to destruc- 
tion. Every day the hearts of the populace is shattered by 



Jean Jaures 31 

the uncertainty and prolonged anxiety spread everywhere 
by the newspapers. 

Jaures. Qiiiet yourself, old friend ; don't attach any 
importance to these editors. They can never forgive me 
for not mentioning them. All their threats and lies about 
me will not help. Now is the time to profit by the hesita- 
tion of the governments to enter a war, and organize our- 
selves. These are momentous times, therefore no impetu- 
ous zeal should transport us beyond cool reasoning. True 
fortitude that is warranted by justice and wisdom should 
guide us Socialists of the International. True enough, the 
peril is great, but it is not invincible, if we will keep our 
spirits alert, our will firm, and if we can unite within us 
the heroism of patience and the heroism of action, then 
the conception of our true duty will give us the power to 
accomplish it. At present we are probably at the beginning 
of the day when the Austrians are going to throw themselves 
upon the Serbians and Russians. This means a European 
conflagration ; it may be a world conflagration. I don't 
want to look far for the responsibilities, my friend. Among 
all nations directly or indirectly responsible, we have our 
own share. While we were warning, that to enter by force 
of arms in Morocco meant to open for Europe an era of 
ambition for covetousness and conflicts, they denounced 
us as bad Frenchmen, although we were those who were 
full of anxiety for France. There you see is our part in 
the responsibilities, and it gains in precision if you know 
that it is the question of Bosnia Herzogovina that is the 
cause of the war between Austria and Serbia, and that we 
Frenchmen at the time of the annexation of Bosnia and 
Herzogovina by Austria had neither the right nor the means 
to oppose because we were busy in Morocco and because 
we ourselves in pardoning of our own sins have done so 
to forgive the sins of others, and so our Minister of For- 
eign AflFairs said to Austria : "We hand you over Bosnia 
and Herzogovina in order that you leave to us Morocco." 
And we passed around our offers of penitence from Power 
to Power, from Nation to Nation, and we said to Italy: 
"You can go to Tripoli because I am in Morocco; you can 
steal at this end of the street, because I stole at the other 
end." Each nation carried through the streets of Europe 



32 Jean Jaures 

its own small torch that had as a consequence this enormous 
fire. The duplicity of the Russian diplomacy is self-evident. 
They now take Serbia's part against Austria and here is 
what they say: "My big Slavic heart cannot endure any 
violence to this small Slav people of Serbia." When Russia 
intervened in the Balkans in 1877 and when she created 
Bulgaria, so to say independent, with the thought of get- 
ting her later, she said to Austria: "Let me do it and I 
will entrust to you the administration of Bosnia Herzo- 
govina." You understand what diplomats mean by admin- 
istration. From the day Austria and Hungary received 
the order to administer Bosnia Herzogovina she had but 
one thought, and that was to administer it for Austria's best 
interest. 

In the interview that the Russian Foreign Minister 
had with the Austrian Minister, Russia said to Austria : 
'T will authorize you to annex Bosnia Herzogovina with 
the condition that you will permit me to establish a port on 
the Black Sea, in the proximity of Constantinople." 
Md'Aehrentlial made the sign which Russia interpreted as 
affirmative and authorized Austria to take Bosnia and 
Herzogovina; afterwards, when Bosnia and Herzogovina 
were in Austria's pocket, she said to Austria : "It is my 
turn now for the Black Sea." . . . "What?" was the 
answer. "What, did I say anything? Oh, no." And since 
then the trouble between Russia and Austria began be- 
tween Isvolsky, Minister for Russia, and Mr. Md'Aehren- 
thal, Minister for Austria. Russia was the accomplice in 
the delivery of the Slavs of Bosnia and Herzogovina to 
Austria and in the infliction of the wound in the heart of 
the Slavs of Serbia. At present everything is yet in the 
dark ; we do not know what may happen to-morrow. I 
hope that, notwithstanding all that has happened, and in 
the presence of the colossal disaster which is threatening us, 
that at the last minute the governments will settle and we 
will be spared the horror of the destruction a European 
war can bring. We Socialists must take it upon ourselves 
to save the people from the crime the governments want 
to commit. If there only remain but a few hours we must 
redouble our efforts in order to avert the catastrophe. 
Already in the Vorwaerts our comrades in Germany rose 



Jean Jaures 33 

indignantly against the Austrian note, and I think that our 
International will be convened. This is the only promise, 
the only hope for the re-establishment of peace. In the 
Wagram Hall on Sunday morning there will be a meeting 
of all Socialist Federations of the Seine. In this reunion 
we will expose the International situation and will set forth 
the activities the International Socialists are to expect from 
us. Such reunions in great numbers will keep the thought 
and will of the proletarians in full activity and will prepare 
that demonstration in immense proportions, which shall be 
a prelude to the Congress of the International. The most 
important thing is a continuous action and a perpetual awak- 
ening of the thought and conscience of the workers. Therein 
lies true safety; therein lies the guarantees for the future. 

Rapin. You will not do this. It is treason, this kind 
of agitation. Remember that it is the dignity of France 
that is involved. We want no repetition of Sadowa. It is 
paramount with every true Frenchman to show the world 
what an aroused nation can do, and rest assured you shall 
not stand in our way. 

March music is heard outside; Marie, Annette, Leon, 
Rapin and Gaspard run to the windozv, zvave their hands; 
Rapin, pointing outside, says aloud: 

Thus beats the soul of France ! It is those that die for 
France who remain immortal and enter the pantheon of 
the demi-gods whom the nations adore and whom the Hand 
of Time can no more harm. I am ready to pay with my 
life, if necessary, to shoot all miserable traitors, such as 
you are, to rid France of the friends of our enemies, the 
Prussians. 

Jaures rises, very much hurt, Lambert entreats 
him to sit down and calms him with words of conso- 
lation. March music is heard, soldiers marching in the 
street ; Rapin looks out through the zvindow, calls every one 
again to the windozvs and exclaims: Thus beats the soul 
of France. I-ong live France ! 

Annette. Leon and Rapin leave. 

Leon. Forward, march. Left Left! 

Lambert. He is an incurable fanatic. These are the 
most dangerous. He is otherwise an intelligent man, but 
his passionate patriotism blinds him completely. Although 



34 Jean Jaures 

my son-in-law, when it comes to this question he is rough 
and insuhing. It is of such individuals you must take care. 

Jaures. I'm used to this, my friend. Threatening 
letters and accusations of all sorts are daily showered upon 
me. I don't mind them; I am convinced that I am doing 
what is right. My whole life was spent in the service of 
the people, mingling among them and giving them the best 
that is in me, and just now to retire and leave them help- 
less, that would be cowardice. They probably will kill me, 
but this is no sacrifice in comparison with what I shall have 
taught my people. I want to prove a living example of the 
ideals I have been preaching all my life, for I believe that 
no one generally teaches the things he wants nor those 
things he knows, but he always teaches that which he 
actually is himself. I shall be among my people until my 
last breath. They can't instill fear in me, for I'm convinced 
that hope and not fear is the creative principle in human 
affairs. 

Lambert, Still you must take some precautions. Re- 
member your wife, your children, Jean. 

Jaures. Yes, I love them. I have not given them 
much joy, but, my friend, there is a Superior power direct- 
ing me. The power that lends life to this infinite universe 
and reaches out into eternity. 

Trumpets are heard mixed with revolutionary marches 
and songs. All go to the windozv, wave their hands. 

Jaures. Good-bye, Lambert; I'll see you at the 
meeting. 

Lambert. Let me accompany you. I fear for you. 
These old, weak arms of mine will snatch away the weapon 
and prevent the murderer from consummating his miserable 
crime. Let me be near you. We need you, for without 
you chaos will reign ; a chaos that will drench France in 
the blood and tears of the innocent. Let me be with you. 

Jaures. Honest, Lambert, do not fear, for I am 
doubly armed. My death and my life are before me. I 
defy their threats. No fear and no guilt disturbs my rest. 
The work we do shall flourish in immortal youth, unhurt 
amidst wars or the wrecks of worlds. I am indifferent to 
death, comrade. I have confronted death tmhesitatingly 
before, and I shall do the same now. Good-bye, friends. 

Jaures leaves. Lambert and Gaspard follow. 
Curtain. 



Jean Jaures 35 



ACT III. 

TABLEAU I. 

An elegant parlor in Count Kosloff's apartment. The 
furniture and ornaments consist of a mixture of modern 
Louis XIV and Japanese, suggesting great wealth and a 
fancy for decorative trifles. From the ceiling hang chan- 
deliers zuith various colored lights, the bluish predominating. 
A full-sized portrait of the Czar and Czarina is conspicu- 
ously hung. Several lounges are to be seen close to the 
walls, covered by richly embroidered spreads and pillozvs. 
A sweet, aromatic odor of incense in small cloudlets is in 
the air. Through large windows in the rear, numerous 
lights ivith a bluish mist, from the park opposite the apart- 
ment, are to be noticed. It is after midnight. Around a 
table covered with various wines and dishes a jolly com- 
pany, consisting of the Count, Graham, Charles and Laurens, 
writers from Le Patriot e, zvith girls, dancers from Maxim's, 
are amusing themselves watching Ninette executing a Greek 
dance after the classic composition played by pianist. 

KosLOFF. To the devil with worry and care for the 
morrow. (Picks up glass of wine.) Let us be merry! 
(Goes over to Ninette stops her from dancing, embraces 
her.) You pretty devil, here is my whole house at your 
disposal. Friends, my best wine and my heartiest welcome. 
(Bell is heard ringing. Antonio enters.) What is the mat- 
ter? Why so late? 

Antonio. How can you accuse me of being late? 
Didn't I know the exquisite beauties you have with you 
to-night? Why, I actually flew here as with an aeroplane. 
Oh, Ninette. (Embraces all the girls.) 

Gbaham. You are certainly affectionate. You cer- 
tainly can flirt. 

Antonio. How can I help it ? Just look at them ; my 
southern blood reaches the boiling point when I see the 
graceful Ninette. 

KosLOFF. Oh, yes, Ninette, she goes to Russia with 
me. Isn't that so, Ninette? There you will know what 



36 Jean Jaures 

life is. I will introduce you to the highest aristocracy, and 
I assure you, you will make a hit with them. Oh, how we 
love the French ladies. They are so delicate, so sweet, so 
charming. (Kisses her. All laugh.) 

Graham. Antonio! What are you sitting there for? 
Push right in between these two ladies; wake them up; 
they'll freeze without you. You know how to do it. 

Antonio changes his seat; takes his place betzveen the 
girls. 

KosLOFF. What's the continuous kissing going on? 
Are you mad, Antonio? 

Antonio. It's my Sicilian temperament. I have it 
from my father. He was famous in Palermo; for there 
wasn't a girl in town whom he did not kiss, or attempt to, 
at least. 

KosLOFF. He must have been mad. 

Antonio. Oh, certainly mad, always in love, but he 
did not bite. Just kissing once, twice, twenty times ; he 
never tired. It was his sickness. Like this. (Kisses his 
neighbor repeatedly. ) 

KosLOFF. If you do not enjoy yourselves to-night, my 
friends, 'tis your own fault. The smiles of these ladies 
should be enough to cheer you up, let alone the very best 
champagne and real Russian vodka. Long live the Czar of 
all the Russians ! 

All stand up and cheer, pointing to the Czar's portrait. 
The pianist plays the Russian national hymn. A man enters 
in uniform, announcing the Russian Ambassador. The Am- 
bassador enters. 

Ambassador. Good health to you all. Do not disturb 
yourselves, my friends. 

Antonio. Welcome to our little party, your noble 
highness. Let us all drink to the Ambassador's health. 
All stand up, the Russian hymn is played again; all 
drink; they stand, waiting until the Ambassador finishes his 
glass and takes his seat; they then sit down. 

Ambassador. What is the matter with the girls? Don't 
you like this wine ? Poor girls ; they are not used to it. 
Drink a little, and you will cheer up. 

KosLOFF. My ladies are used to it. Oh, yes, they 
are used to champagne and vodka; but wait; they haven't 



Jean Jaures 37 

had enough. Give them a chance. Let the wine rise up 
and they will beat us. (Girls laugh.) 

Ninette takes her seat near the Ambassador. 

Ambassador. Did you dance to-night? 

KosLOFF. And how she danced! Like one of our 
own, with a little French grace added. We must bring her 
to Russia, Ambassador. Come, Ninette, dance some more. 
{She dances.) 

Graham {taking out his zvatch.) It is getting late. 
Three o'clock. Antonio, will you accompany the girls home? 

Antonio Why, of course. Come, litle chicks ; come 
under my warm, soft, feathered wings. How I love you! 

They leave merrily, the Ambassador, Graham and Kos- 
loff remaining. 

Graham. I saw Rapin to-day and I expect him here 
soon. He is determined to assassinate Jaures. I made an 
appointment with him here in order to encourage him. He 
understands our purpose and firmly believes in us. 

KosLOFF. And should he even fail, I shall be there 
in time to finish him. 

Ambassador. You cannot do that. It will spoil all 
our plans. The public will interpret it as a Russian con- 
spiracy to drag France into the war. Neither you, Graham, 
nor Antonio should proceed in committing this act. It must 
be done by a Frenchman, in order that no doubt shall 
remain in the people's minds and that it is patrotism pure 
and simple that has urged a brave man to kill Jaures, the 
only obstacle towards the waging of a victorious war against 
the Teutons. 

Graham. Now we feel the loss of our editor, that 
wonderful man. Monsieur Callet. He had everything ready. 

Bell is heard ringing. Rapin enters, exchanges greetings 
with all, pays his respects to the Ambassador. 

Rapin. Gentlemen, we must wake up. Jaures is 
preparing a gigantic dem.onstration towards peace. This 
humiliation before the Germans will render futile all 
efiforts on the part of our governments to unite against our 
common enemy. I don't have to tell you how easy it is to 
appeal to the hearts and minds of the masses. He is inex- 
perienced at this work, and I fear he will meet with suc- 
cess, unless^ — and here I tell you of my decision. I want 



38 Jean Jaures 

to put an end to his life in order to bring a sacrifice on the 
altar of French patriotism. As long as we are not secure 
from German aggression, we are not free. This grand 
nation that gave freedom to the whole world should have 
the help of the whole world in her own fight for freedom. 
My life is at my country's disposal. 

Ambassador. Long live France! {Kosloif and Gra- 
ham join.) May such Christian spirit dominate our people 
as well, so that all traitors, demagogues and Jews be wiped 
out from among us. {Takes out watch, greets every one 
and leaves.) 

KosLOFF. So there is no time to wait. This means 
that before to-morrow evening Jaures must be dead ; all 
right; to-morrow we meet at the Croissant Restaurant. 
Jaures will have his lunch there. 

Graham. Yes, that's right ; we must finish it to-mor- 
row, otherwise all is lost. The demonstration will discour- 
age Gray, and I am sure he will stop abruptly any negotia- 
tions with France. This means the loss of the only chance 
presented in history to crush the German power. 

KosLOFF. My opinion, friends, is to draw lots as to 
who shall be the one to fire the shot. 

Graham. Very well, I agree. 

Rapin. No, friends, none of you can do it; it will 
make matters worse. It is the French nation that executes 
through me, the full-blooded Frenchman. Your participa- 
tion will be misconstrued. I consider it a sacred privilege 
to save France from the man who works to undermine her 
existence. 

Graham. Yes, friend, we will be with you. Have 
you a good weapon ? Let me see it. 

Rapin. I will purchase one to-morrow. 

KosLOFF {taking out of his pocket a revolver and hand- 
ing if over to Rapin.) Here is the best American revolver, 
all charged. To-morrow, before lunch-time, we will be 
at the Croissant Restaurant. You, Mr. Rapin, must watch 
us through the window of the restaurant. As soon as I 
rise from the table and put on my hat, fire at Jaures, who 
usually sits right close to the window. Empty the entire 
revolver so as to make his death certain. 

Rapin. Do not fear. I am an officer in the French 



Jean Jaures 39 

Army. I shall not miss the mark. {Takes out watch.) 
It is very late ; I must go to bed and rest. Good morning, 
gentlemen. At Restaurant Croissant to-morrow. 

Curtain. 



T.\BLEAU 2. 

Interior of the Croissant Restaurant. Perin and Poilu, 
two waiters, in conversation. There are no guests in the 
restaurant. 

Perin. Haven't I my daily wars for earning a liveli- 
hood? And when I reach home after a hard day's work, 
haven't I wars with my wife? Jaures is right. The worker 
has other worries besides soldiering. Let only those go to 
war who don't worry about losing their jobs, do not fear 
the landlord and whose families live at ease. 

PoiLu. Let these things alone ; forget them ; when your 
country wants you, you must go. Your father, grandfather, 
all went when they were called to the colors. They gave 
no excuses. They were brave; that's all. 

Perin. All right ; but still I can't understand the whole 
affair. These newspapers make a man insane. Is there 
anything wrong with us? The revenge and the mourning 
of the Strassbourg monument are old and forgotten griev- 
ances. What is the difference between a German workman 
and a French workman ? We are all brothers, each loving 
his home and his children in the same way. Each moved 
by the same feelings and neither of us having the slightest 
inclination to butcher the other. 

PoiLu. Why don't you read with brains? Don't run 
away with yourself. Those damned Austrians, with the 
help of Prussians, persecute Serbians in Bosnia-Herzogovina 
{pronouncing it badly). That is why they killed the Aus- 
trian Prince Fritz in Sarajewo {pronouncing it badly). Now 



40 Jean Jaures 

Austria wants to fight Serbia for killing the Prince, but the 
Russians are sorry for the Serbians, and take their part. 
We, being allied with the Russians, must help them. There 
is the whole thing in a nutshell. 

Perin. Exactly. This is what they write and fill the 
papers with. You may be right and the newspapers may 
be right; but I don't know where that Servia is. And I 
never heard of such a prince. Why should we fight for 
people we don't know? Let them fight it out themselves. 

PoiLu. Don't be foolish ; the friendship of Russia we 
must not lose. Furthermore, what do you know about 
diplomacy? There are secrets that the people must not 
know. There is something going on between England, 
Italy, France, Japan, Russia, Germany, Austria, Turkey 
and Bulgaria. It is a very serious thing and then we want 
back Alsace-Lorraine. Don't look so wise; we are only 
waiters; if we work, we live, and if we don't, we starve. 
We must go when we are called. 

Perin. Well, we will go. {They shake hands.) But 
I hope at least when we return we get our jobs back again. 
On patriotism alone we cannot live. 

PoiLu. Who thinks about a job when the country is 
in danger of a German invasion? We will let Jaures take 
care of that. He will not give them peace until every 
worker gets his well-earned share. 

Perin. You see, though, that Jaures wants only peace. 
When I served him last time, he figured out how many will 
be killed and crippled, because the Germans are prepared, 
while we are not. We have bad officers, not enough guns, 
and a corruption in the army which Jaures is afraid will be 
the cause of our defeat. 

PoiLu. W^hat do you tell me about Jaures. How 
could such a good-hearted and noble man be for war? He 
is a philosopher, a Socialist, therefore naturally opposed 
to killing. Oh, there are not many like him. Even his 
own comrades are different. Jaures is an exception. He 
gives everything he has, his whole life, in fact, to carry out 
the purpose nearest his heart. But even at that we can't 
follow him, either. The country's call comes first. Whether 
we want it or we don't, whether she is right or whether she 
is wrong, we must obey the law. 



Jean Jaures 41 

Perin. Will you go with me Sunday to the Interna- 
tional Socialists' meeting in Wagram Hall? 

PoiLU. No, I have no time. What do you bother? 
We will wait. When we are called, my friend, neither 
your reasons nor Jaures' will help. We all march as quickly 
as they command us to. The command must be obeyed. 
God willed it so. 

An aristocratically dressed zvonian about thirty-jive 
comes in with a man about forty- five ; they take their places 
at one of the tables in the restaurant. Perin and Poilu run 
over to them. 

Gentleman. Frankly to tell you, I love peace, not 
for anybody else's sake, but for my own. I like to sleep 
peacefully, drink my little glass peacefully, and live gener- 
ally peaceful with the entire world. War or no war, I'll 
stay at home. 

Lady. You are a coward. 

Gentleman. Oh, no {beats his breast.) I am a brave 
man ; I am for war ; my ancestors were all soldiers. 

Lady. You are a liar. 

Gentleman (takes out newspaper, shozvs it to the 
lady). Here is a letter of mine in favor of war with Ger- 
many. Besides this, all my friends know that I am for 
extensive armaments, for building dreadnaughts, guns, for- 
tifications, aeroplanes manufacturing of poison and dyna- 
mite. You know one must be up to date in society. What 
I told you before was only concerning myself. Sons, I 
have none to go to war ; neither will yours go, for you have 
none. Nothing to fear, my dear, nothing. 

Lady. Were I to have a dozen sons, nothing would 
make me prouder of them than to see my boys give their 
lives for their country. The mothers that are shedding tears 
and discourage their children from serving their country 
do so out of ignorance. We must enlighten them, and not 
encourage their stupid sentimentality. Is there anything 
nobler than to give your life for the country you adore? 
The most foolish spectacle I witnessed when serving as 
head nurse in the Balkan war was the crowd of women 
coming to the hospital daily, weeping and mourning in a 
dilapidated condition, presenting the most horrid and sombre 
scene. There was not one woman heroic enough to bear 



42 Jean Jaures 

her sorrow stoically. They caused greater grief to those 
they visited. Not so with the French women. They, I am 
sure, will prove worthy of the descendants of Joan of Arc. 

Gentleman. Drink your wine. You are not a 
mother ; only a woman who has no children can become so 
hardened. 

Lady. Pardon me; you are good for nothing. You 
are lazy and effeminate. Yours is not the joy of victory, 
the adventure of a hero, who is always on the watch, 
always in danger of losing his life. All you care for is 
the pleasure of a soft bed, a beautiful house and a gently 
rolling automobile. You only live in complete physical 
indolence, sweet music, kid gloves, and silk socks, among 
fashionable society, either golfing or reading a novel. 

Gentleman. You are right, but this is how I like 
it, and it isn't bad, either. If you like it otherwise you can 
have it. Go to the battle front. 

Lady. Yes, I'll go, for it's glorious to walk about in 
the hospitals in the snow-white dress, and care for the 
wounded heroes. Oh, how gorgeous to watch a battle in 
action, with nerves strained to the highest pitch, ready, 
alert, capable of the most inconceivable acts of bravery. 
The spot where men and women bring forth the noblest 
and most wonderfully varied qualities. The scenes I wit- 
nessed in the Balkan war I shall never forget. How I long 
to be back again in this work. This lazy and uneventful 
life annoys me. I cannot be satisfied with every-day drudg- 
ery; the foolish love affairs of former times do not satisfy 
me any longer. Ah, for a nurse on the battle field ! 

Gentleman. I think you ought to put on a uniform 
and enlist in the army. 

Lady. You are jesting, but you shall see. I will 
organize women and train them into as good soldiers as 
any others ; certainly better than you. 

Gentleman. You will soon get the opportunity. I 
don't care ; for my part, let them fight. I haven't the re- 
quired weight, anyway. 

Four very distinguished looking men, all above the 
age of fifty-five, gray hair and giving the impression of 
wealth. They take their seats around a table in the res- 
taurant. 



Jean Jaures 43 

First Man. I am delighted with the situation. The 
Germans are not going to fool us this time. Jaures is 
active, but we are more so. What do you say? 

Second Man. It occurs to me very often, and some- 
times I even suffer pangs of conscience for never having 
served in the army. With some excuse or other when I 
came of military age, I dodged it and was freed; but all 
the same, you know, my friends. I made good this mistake, 
not in the army, it is true, but in the field of statesmanship. 
They all stand up and shake hands with him. 

Fourth Man, You will remain immortal. Soldiers 
we have many, but very few brains like yours, old fellow. 

Second Man. Listen to my warning; it's these crazy 
Socialists with Jaures at the head who keeps us back from 
completing the iron ring around the Teutons. 

First Man. I'll get my gun down and arm my sons, 
too, to shoot all these dissenters. 

Third Man. You are right, my friends. The dis- 
loyal citizens are a menace to society. 

Fourth Man. We are too lenient with this peace at 
any price gang. Cowards with no backbone in them. Here 
is luck ! They rise and drink. 

Lady. See, these are examples of courageous citizens. 

Gentleman. You see those fellows there? The rea- 
son they are so brave is because they are too old, and certain 
not to have to go to war. For the young fellows, they don't 
care. 

Second Man. Should they succeed in making a big 
anti-war demonstration the government would be at a loss 
as to what to do. 

First Man. It is only talk. There is no doubt in 
my mind that these same agitators will become good soldiers. 
The people love to hear promises of the good in Paradise. 
There is nothing to worry about. The resources of the 
nation are meanwhile concentrated. It doesn't hurt to give 
the people speeches, encouraging their fancies. They will 
bear their sufferings more patiently, leaving the government 
to continue its work. 

Third Man. Let them talk all they want; we have 
efficient methods of fighting them. First and foremost is 
the securing of well-paid jobs for the most influential lead- 



44 Jean Jaures 

ers. Why, it works like a charm. A secure position and 
a big salary quiets them wonderfully. Nay, they are even 
of greater value to us than a good many of our conserva- 
tives. The Socialists, the Syndicalists and all the other 
"ists" have the confidence of the people, and this is enough 
to put a damper on their dissatisfactions and tendencies to 
revolt. 

Second Man. You can't do it, though, with a man 
like Jaures. We are to expect yet terrible uprisings insti- 
gated by this man. 

Third Man. Mr. Callet, our beloved editor of "Le 
Patriote," the victim of* that hysterical woman, also feared 
Jaures. But he repeatedly assured me that everything is 
prepared to make Jaures inoffensive at the proper time. 

First Man. This war, gentlemen, will not last long, 
for Germany cannot resist the entire world. The forces 
working against her are so immense and so overpowering 
as will bring about a dismemberment of the entire German 
Empire. 

They leave. The only ones in the restaurant are Perin 
and Poilu. 

Perin. Did you hear what those old cocks said of 
Jaures. Ha ha, ha. They are afraid of him ! 

Poilu. They are no soldiers. Fighting men never 
speak so much. Only cowards show their bravery in the 
cafes and restaurants. All they can shoot, and all they can 
bayonet, are bears' and lions' skins stuffed with sawdust. 
They are good at political job-hunting. 

Graham and Kosloff enter in conversation and take 
their seats at a table left of the entrance in the restaurant. 

Kosloff. If Rapin misses I will not let him escape. 
But I am sure he will not. We must strike immediately. 
We are now united and agreed upon that Constanti- 
nople must be Russia's. France must get back Alsace-Lor- 
raine and England must retain the supremacy of the seas. 
One thing is certain, Germany and her allies intend to strike 
at us with the whole of their tremendous force. Only the 
concerted action we propose can save the Avorld from Teu- 
tonic domination. 

Graham (taking out his zvafch). Rapin is to be here 
about this time. We will have something. 



Jean Jaures 45 

Rapin enters and takes a seat at the table of Graham 
and Kosloff. 

Rapin. I have positive information that Jaures is lead- 
ing tremendous demonstrations and is in touch with some 
members of the cabinet who are about to negotiate with 
Germany. The man is insane. 

Kosloff. He shall not live to see this, what you may 
call insanity, in actual working order. How treacherous! 
At present, such momentous times for our nations, at a time 
when our existence, the life and death of our nations hang 
in the balance, to negotiate with Germany ! 

Rapin. I am going, my friends ; I have learned how 
to do my duty towards my country and do it I will ; good-bye. 
(Shakes hands and leaz'es. Graham and Kosloff stand up.) 

Kosloff. Long live the Entente ! Rapin, remember 
the sign. 

Lambert enters in conversation with a friend and takes 
a seat at one of the tables in the restaurant. 

Lambert. What do they want of Jaures, these crimi- 
nal, hypocritical and degenerate newspaper editors? They 
do net stop at anything. Villifications and lies of all sorts 
fill daily their newspaper columns. I am only surprised 
that some lunatic or blinded fanatic has not killed him 
already. They are capable of anything. I will not be sur- 
prised if they hire a murderer to put him out of the way. 
I am continually warning Jaures, but in vain ; he will not 
take any precautions and will not leave his work for any- 
thing in the world. He fears no death ! 

Jaures and friends come in and take seats at the left of 
a table near the ivindow facing the street. The other tables 
in the restaurant are occupied bv Graham, and Ko<:loff. .^ 
young man and wife are dining, /■ 

Lambert (on seeing Jaures arises.) There is Jaures! 
You see I keep an eye on you, Jean. What are you doing 
here? Stop showing yourself in public places so often. 

Jaures (embraces Lambert and invites hitn to sit near 
him). Don't be so concerned about me, Lambert. Do 
you think I am going to betray my people just now? Don't 
fear; they will not kill me. I am sure that as soon as this 
war craze of the ruling classes and intellectuals will 
be over they will appreciate my present work. I only mean 



46 Jean Jaures 

the good of the whole nation. (Addressing himself to all 
surrounding his table.) We must see that the demonstra- 
tion be carried out as effectively as possible. Let our voices 
resound with such might as will convince the whole world 
that we don't want war, and if we don't succeed and they 
lead us into war against our wills, they will pay just as dear 
for the murder, the defeat and the shame of France. 

After a pause the young man rises from his table and 
hands a photograph to a man sitting at Jaures' table. 

Young Man. This is my little daughter. 

Jaures. May I see it? {Smilingly he examines the 
photograph.) Isn't she pretty! How old is she? 

Rapin's head is seen looking in through the imndow 
towards the street. Kosloif gets up and takes his hat. Sud- 
denly two revolver shots flash through the zvindozv. Jaures 
falls to the floor. A zvoman's voice is heard screaming: 
'"Jaures is killed!" {General confusion.) 

Curtain. 



Jean Jaures 47 



it is in the month of August, in the tzvilight of a very 
hot day; a large sun-sphere is setting in the horizon and 
spreadifig a variety of fiery colors through the scantily^ 
clouded sky. A file of soldiers with their captain are inarch- 
ing through the barren, dry and petrified grounds, desolate 
rocks, caves and curious volcanic creations blasted by strange 
spasms of nature. The men show signs of a long and 
weary march. Suddenly a zvoman, zvith her clothes iri 
shreds, her hair disheveled, runs over to the captain, falls 
to her knees and zveeps bitterly. The soldiers halt. 

Woman. Let me be with you ; I have no one but you ; 
I will attend you when you are wounded and be near you 
when you are killed. Hide me somewhere ; I will suffer all 
hardships, but pity me and don't chase me away from you 
any longer. 

Captain. Again here ! It's treason, my dear, to take 
a woman along with the regiment. As much as I love you, 
my duty towards my country comes first. To disobey the 
command of my general is to me worse than a thousand 
deaths. Do not tempt me into breaking my oath of loyalty. 
I will not do it ! I would rather see you dead than have 
you interfere with tlie execution of my military orders. 
How often have I repeated this to you? Understand me. 
We must reach a military position. We have no time to 
lose. The enemy is close upon us. 

Woman. I want to be with you, my husband. I want 
to be with you! {Clings to him.) 

Captain. Go away, go ! 

Woman. I shall cling to you until my last breath. 
(Grasps him about his limbs.) 

Captain. You will not go? (Very much enraged.) 

Woman. No, no. (Captain shoots her. Commands 
the soldiers.) 

Captain. Forward, march ! 



48 Jean Jaures 



FROM "ARA PACIS" ALTAR OF PEACE. 

By 

RoMAiN Roland 

De profundis damans; out of the depths 
of hatred I raise my voice in praise of 
thee, Godly peace. 

The lamentations of the poor will 
not smother it. 

In vain I see the beautiful 

mutilated body of Europe, borne upon 
the rising blood drenched sea, 
and hear the storm of frenzy tearing 
souls asunder. 

Were I to be the only one left 

I should remain faithful to 

you. I shall not go to the blasphemers' 

supper of blood. I shall not 

partake of the body of the Son 

of Man. 

I am the brother of all, and I love 

you all, you men whom it 

was given an hour to live; and 

you rob yourselves of this very hour. 

You join the hands and hearts of 

those who in their flight seek 

each other, and you put a yoke 

upon the stubborn bull, so that 

he may use the vigor of his steaming 

loins, not for fighting, but to draw in the earth 

the long deep furrow^ 

wherein tlie seed shall be planted. 

Brothers, let us unite our scattered 

forces struggling within 

the broken hearts, and clasp 

our hands, so that we may wander 

through life in rhythmic dance. 



Jean Jaures 49 



ACT III. 

TABLEAU 3. 

One year after the cessation of hostilities. A dining 
room in Gaspard's home. Jaures' port ait hangs facing the 
audience. Marie, now the wife of Gaspard, is setting things 
in order and singitig the same song she heard when Gaspard 
came to say farewell on leaving with his regiment in July, 
1914. It is a beautiful summer day, and everything in the 
room is flooded with sunshine, setting off the extreme cleans 
liness of a careful housewife. Gaspard, crippled, enters 
the room with Lambert, who is very much aged. 

Marie. Back so soon? It does you good to walk 
in the Bois, Mr. Lambert. I see color in your cheeks. 
Aren't you tired? Sit down. 

Lambert. It isn't so much the air that does me good 
as it is to watch the people enjoying as of old the peaceful 
pleasures, carelessly strolling along the roads among the 
verdure of the Champs filysees. Forgotten is the past with 
its horrors when you walk among this happy crowd, and at 
home your tenderness, Marie, your kind attentions, give 
me new life. It is only when alone, thinking of my comrade, 
Jaures, that I remain stupefied with wonder how such a 
wonderful brain and such a loving heart disappeared so 
suddenly; and then the catastrophe that robbed us of the 
bravest and most innocent children. It seems to me as if 
the Gods met their death when Jaures met his. Oh, my 
dear friends, where would I be if not for you? 

Marie. We do nothing for you ; we both love you, 
especially Gaspard. I am almost becoming jealous. Do 
you remember, Monsieur Lambert, the promise Gaspard 
made me before he left for the front? Well, I'll tell you 
right to his face that he almost came near breaking it. 
Imagine this brave soldier, with all his medals on his chest, 
fearing to marry me, because he had lost his feet in the 
battle ! It took me some time to convince him that I loved 
him just the same without his feet as I did with them, but 
he would not believe me until we went to church and 
married. 



50 Jean Jaures 

Gaspard. I don't remember anything. You, Marie, 
make me forget everything. Your motherly comfort, to a 
physically broken down man as I am, more than repays me 
for all I have suffered. 

Marie. Why does he always talk about my helping 
him, pitying him? This man annoys me, Monsieur Lam- 
bert. I don't, I don't pity him, don't think he needs any 
pity. 

Marie weeps. Caspar d stumbles over to her on crutches 
and caresses her. 

Lambert. She is right; don't repeat such things. It 
makes her feel bad. It is her only joy in life to be near 
you and comfort you, because she loves you. {Madame 
Annette Rapin enters, dressed in mourning.) My daugh- 
ter, how do you feel ? Rest yourself. 

Annette. How can I feel? My dear father, you 
are the only tie that binds me to life. Please don't mind 
me; my only concern is about you. 

Lambert. Do not worry about me, child. You see 
that girl there? She likes me and never tires working and 
caring for me. She herself is always singing and happy. 
You must also be like Marie. This continual sadness robs 
you of your health. Look! What a lovely day! Go out 
and enjoy the spring air and sunshine. It will make you 
forget your sorrows. 

Annette. I will never forget my sorrows. Father, 
mine was a double loss — a husband and a son. What am 
I without them, alone with my pain, a bereft mother wasting 
away and fading day by day in solitude. Gone are the 
tender caresses of my child, gone the hopes of his future 
and the feeling that my work will not die with me — that 
Leon will perpetuate it. (Military march is heard. She 
gla/tices through the ivindow.) Whom are they encounter- 
ing with such glory? Some generals, gray and withered 
with age. Pompously arrayed they ride on their splendid 
horses to the sound of trumpets and martial music. How 
majestic ! But who is to encounter my little soldier? Where 
is he ? Dead, dead ! Forgotten ! Thrown into a huge 
grave with a thousand other little soldiers. Oh, justice! 
Where are you ? This pain crushes me to the earth ! Would 
that its crust might open and swallow me ! I am a burden 



Jean Jaures 51 

to myself and feel my conscience dismembering me. Why 
did I let them take Leon away from me? I should have 
clung to them with my teeth until my head would have 
been torn off my body. I should have screamed aloud — 
destroyed everything, so as to frighten the generals and 
make them return to me my only son. Instead, I submitted, 
shed tears and satisfied myself with worrying, and here I 
am now still worrying. Not the slightest energy in me to 
punish those who condemned them to death. Silent, Christ- 
like, I patiently suffer, even prayers are insufficient to ease 
my aching heart. In fact, I cannot pray. The cry of 
"Mamma" from my child in agony of pain from wounds 
haunts me daily. With not the slightest pity has God 
answered my prayers. {She rises.) The murderers had 
no time to wait; so young, yet so young, so beautiful and 
so strong, a rosebud torn from its stem. It was just such 
boys they took without mercy. What have I done to 
receive such terrible punishment? The child, whom during 
the long nights of infancy, I hugged to my breast, now not 
even to know where his grave is. Oh, God ! Make me 
insane, so that I may not understand nor feel this terrific 
pain. (Music is heard from the street.) See them singing 
and marching to the tunes of war and victory ! How cruel ! 
How blind ! Don't they see the conqueror's hands full of 
the blood of the slaughtered millions? Oh, father! for 
you I feel a sympathy and an understanding nothing else 
in the world could replace. Why were they not all like 
you ? Why did they not mind you ? 

Lambert. It was his fault. Leon, poor boy, was his 
victim. Such a young life, just beginning to bloom! (Sad 
music is heard. All are listening.) And my dear friend, 
Jaures, too, all the good and brave men. Oh, this accursed 
Patriotism. Look at its consequences A world was ruined, 
What for? At present just as before the war the people 
who have within themselves the character and mind to feel 
and understand justice and kindness are the only ones who 
respond to the world's needs and aspirations ; those who live 
uncompromisingly all their life by these principles, are now, 
just as before, engaged in just as keen a struggle for room to 
live on this planet. Such a man will never use a murderous 
weapon unless the brutes will intimidate and coerce him 



52 Jean Jaiires 

into doing so. His is a continuous battle for life, the 
eminent example which teaches mankind, that in order to 
live in freedom all vestige of hatred and domination must 
be uprooted. Thus to have lived and fallen in the battle of 
life is the only true heroism that ever existed in ages past 
and will exist to the end of time. 

Only a year has passed and it is only now when peace 
reigns all over the land that the blind war leaders fully ac- 
knowledge the prophecy of Jaures. How many times did 
he predict this calamity, whether it be defeat or victory for 
France. Jaures will live eternally in the hearts of his people ! 
Go out, Annette, go out for a walk with Marie and enjoy 
the cool, healthy air. Do me a favor, Marie. 

Mai?ie. Very well, I shall do this, but only for your 
sake. I would never do anything ^r Gaspard, jiiever. 

Gaspard rises and embraces Marie. All laugh. Marie 
and Annette leave. 

Lambert. It breaks my heart when I see Annette. 
My poor daughter suffers terribly. 

Gaspard. You are softened too easily Monsieur Lam- 
. bert. No wonder; it's a long time since you have been on 
a battlefield. I lost a good deal of my former sentiments. 
They can't get the best of me. I am no more the Gaspard 
you knew. No matter how much I try, there is still in me, 
the one-time Socialist, a good portion of brutality. Of 
course, it's my kind Marie who helps to soften and humanize 
my nature. I would be very miserable without her. 

Lambert. You know I thought of it many time and 
could not imagine how you fought. I am always looking 
with astonishment at' your medals, these official signs of a 
successful murderer. 

Gaspard. To make you understand how completely 
I changed from the man you formerly knew, I will relate 
to you one of my experiences. It was in September, 
1914. One night I was entrenched with my company be- 
hind an earthwork, south of the Aisne. The Germans had 
been hurled back from the Mame, but the new lines were 
not yet formed. For two weeks I had not slept and had 
not taken off my shoes. Every moment wrecked my nerves 
with anxiety at the expectation of another attack in the 
darkness. Between short intervals of drowsiness I stirred 



Jean Jaures 53 

myself up to take careful aim at a clump of bushes between 
the Imes and fire a couple of shots with my automatic pistol. 
When next our lines moved forward, I found six dead 
Germans behind the bushes at which I had steadily aimed 
the day before. In the pocket of one of them was an 
unfinished letter, which told of a mother and five children 
who would never see the supporter of their home again. 
There was also a pair of woolen socks. I took the letter 
and the socks. A few days later we were given leave for 
sleep. No sooner had I reached my quarters than I took 
off my shoes, chafed my numb feet until they became a little 
warm and put on the German's socks. A comfortable, 
warm glow came over me for the first time in days. Sud- 
denly I sat up wide awake and filled with horror. I saw 
before me the father and husband whom I had killed, and 
taken the socks the mother had made for him, without the 
slightest qualm. This did not last long and soon I felt 
comfortable and glad that I had them. When night fell, 
then my conscience began to torture me. I could not sleep, 
incomprehensible thoughts whirled through my brain. Only 
a few short weeks of war and see what it had made of me, 
the radical, the Socialist. What will it do to a man who 
never felt as I did about war, who never even dreamt of 
real brotherhood. Well, I confess to you, Lambert, that 
within a year I got to be as bestial as all the rest. I became 
hardened, not suffering any pangs of conscience at either 
the murdering by my own hand or at the sight of the most 
horrible cruelties committed by others! I used to be the 
best at working with a long knife, dodging the German's 
bayonet and disemboweling him in one movement. 

Lambert. Stop, stop, enough of this ! You are a 
veritable beast. 

Annette and Marie enter. 

Marie. We had a lovely walk, and met so many 
friends. They are all going out to-morrow to the ceme- 
tery to lay flowers on the grave of Jaures. Aren't we 
going, Gaspard? 

Lambert's head is bent and he is very sad, Annette 
sitting on a low stool near him holding his hand. Night is 
falling. 



54 Jean Jaures 

Marie. You again repeated your murderous stories, 
the ones you delight in telHng so often. It is not a pleasure 
to hear them ! It makes us all feel sad. 

Lambert. You had no right to go to the front. You 
should rather have been shot as a traitor. Why didn't 
you follow Jaures, your honest, upright teacher. If only 
a handful of International Socialists had sacrificed their 
lives for the ideals they professed, millions of human lives 
would have been saved. What have you done? You have 
destroyed the very temples you prayed in for salvation and 
mercy! From the supplications with the Savior and the 
confidence in His eternal vigilance, from the holy of holies, 
by a sudden twist in your conscience, you turned to the 
gun, the dreadnought, the asphyxiating gas, the Zeppelin, 
as your protecting Divinities. Oh, that the whole world 
had been consumed by the fire of its sons rather than wit- 
ness this murder among brothers. 

Complete darkness. Jaures appears within a pale light 
and speaks. 

Jaures. It shall not be so, for on this earth there are 
good men who are to bear the torch of freedom, so that 
the majesty of suffering labor shall speak in a million 
tongues and mold the nations so that no ills crush down the 
workers by the burden of mistrust, by wars and expecta- 
tions of wars. These men must establish the International 
concord and see that all free nations give their services 
to liberate the small nations that are enslaved. The soul 
of these small nations is at present mutilated, their genius 
incomplete ; and for the great task that shall bring the inde- 
pendence of the worker and that of the whole human organi- 
zation, we need brains that have their original force and 
the genius tliat is possible only under sound and proper 
development. In the succession of these epochal events none 
can compare in its infinite historical value to that, which 
the world has witnessed in the destruction of the last fortress 
of tyranny, Russian Despotism. The Road is clear to all 
those who see the light for the day has come when all nations 
shall be regenerated and every man, no matter what he was 
before, must return to his own people and work for a re- 
union among nations which does not by any means imply 



Jean Jaiires 55 

the amalgamation of all human kind into one people who 
speak one language, and belong to one creed. 

There shall be no more military castes. The 
people themselves, the people organized shall guard and 
prescribe through an international union the means for 
saving the independence of all nations from aggressions 
from vv^ithout, at the same time guarding the freedom of 
the people from the aggressions and domination of the 
classes. 

Lambert. Jaures, my friend! 



Curtain. 




56 Jean Jaures 



BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES ON THE LIFE OF JAURES 

Jean Jaures was born September 3, 1859, in Castres, 
a town in the province of Languedoc, one of the most won- 
derful regions in France, remarkable for its massive granite 
formations, united with vast stretches of hardened lava. 
This region has given France and humanity a rich harvest 
of great men of an enthusiastic and positive nature : Guizot, 
Auguste Comte, LaFayette, Lapeyrouse, Rivarol, Ingres, 
and many others. 

The family of Jaures belongs to the middle class; not 
wealthy and not free from the necessity of constant struggle 
for existence. Because of his robust constitution, his touch- 
ing simplicity of manner, his passion and capacity for work, 
Jaures reminds one of a cultured peasant. At times he 
used to say of himself: 'T am as stubborn as a peasant." 
Owing to lack of means, Jaures made his studies with the 
help of a benefactor, M. Felix Deltour, to whom, at his 
graduation, he dedicated a philosophical thesis. 

The youth of Jaures was entirely given up to study. 
Already in school he astonished his comrades with the bril- 
liancy of his oratorical qualities. Gifted with a prodigious 
memory, he very cleverly inserted in his improvisations 
whole passages from classic authors, ancient and modern. 

In 1876 he entered the Lyceum Louis Le Grand, and 
in 1878, at the age of 19, the normal school, from where 
he graduated in 1881. At first he was a teacher in a lyceum 
for young girls in Albi. He later became instructor at the 
University of Toulouse, where he taught from 1883 to 1885, 
where for the first time he was elected member of the 
Chamber of Deputies. He was at the time 26 years of age 
and because of his youth he was designated to the secre- 
tarial office on the day of its opening. From this time on 
until his death, July 31, 1914, the Hfe of Jaures remains 
inseparable from the cause of Republican and Socialistic 
France. Since 1893, when he definitely joined the Socialist 
movement, he did not cease to be in the first rank amongst 
the fighters for the rights of the people. He will pass in 



Jean Jaures 57 

history as the apostle of ideal and humanitarian Socialism, 
and by his glorious death as a martyr for universal peace. 

Before passing to his parliamentary activity, which occu- 
pied half of his life and extends for about a quarter of a 
century, we will point to two theses, one in French, entitled 
"The Reality of the Sensible World," and one in Latin, 
entitled "The Spiritual Origins of German Socialism." 

To Jaures, German Socialism was not the product of 
the materialistic followers of the extreme left in the philos- 
ophy of Hegel, but of those idealists called Luther, Kant, 
Fichte and Hegel. After him the Socialists are the true 
disciples of the German philosophy, and, as it were, the 
German genius itself. Apparently one would believe that 
socialism flourished mainly in England, because it was in 
England in particular, that the new economic order, having 
money as its causative principle, assumed great proportions. 

England was the place where in many ways the process 
of economic development could be best observed and deter- 
mined. But who saw and described it? It was not an 
English philosopher; it was a German living in England — 
Karl Marx. If Marx had not imbibed in his spirit the 
Hegelian dialectics, he would not have attributed the whole 
economic movement in England to this very dialectics. 
England furnished the facts, German philosophy interpreted 
them. Socialism was born in the German spirit long before 
the abnormal growth of the great industries, and the appear- 
ance of conditions leading to economic socialism. In short, 
to understand German Socialism it is not enough to look 
only at its present particular and transitory form which 
Bebel and the others lend it ; its origin must be searched 
into; this means into the entire source of the people's con- 
sciousness and intelligence. This is why I analyzed the 
Christian Socialism of Luther, the moral Socialism. 

In 1 89 1 Jaures did not as yet belong to the Socialist 
party. He knew Socialism only in theory from the study 
of its ideas in books. It was principally the moral and 
philosophical side of German Socialism that attracted him, 
as the following paragraph in his thesis shows : 

"We know that German Socialism is not pure and 
contemplative philosophy ; it is fighting the foundations 



58 Jean Jaures 

of the actual civil society. It is not only a doctrine, 
but a party in the State. Even philosophy itself some- 
times becomes bellicose and unfolds its arms and mixes 
in political combat. It does not look to the heavens 
only, but also to the earth. 

"If Socrates caused philosophy to descend from 
heaven, Socialism has caused Justice to descend from 
there. This means that it scans the region of ideas 
for practical views on the arrangement of this terrestial 
life. Fitche, Lassalle, Marx, Schaeffle, were at the 
same time leaders of movements as well as masters of 
philosophy. 

"Penetrating German Socialism, we find included 
in it a philosophy. It claims that there is in history 
and political economy a certain dialectic, which changes 
the form of things and human relations. It defines 
liberty, not as an abstract faculty to be chosen from 
contraries, not as the hypothetical independence of 
every citizen taken individually, but as a true basis of 
human equality and social concord. 

"German Socialism contains a solid dialectical doc- 
trine of human liberty, of nature and of God, which is 
destined to become universal." 

Whole libraries could be gathered from the attacks 
and calumnies directed against Jaures. The "Temps," the 
journal of the French bourgeoisie, used to have daily one, 
and sometimes two, articles against Jaures. 

Jaures died poor, but lived always in comfortable cir- 
cumstances. His political life, especially during the period 
of his activity in the Socialist party, was a continuous 
battle, even in the material sense of the word. Jaures, who 
rarely spoke of himself, related at the Congress of Toulouse 
his experience while touring his election district in the 
town of Carmaux. He tells of assaults with fists and stones, 
of attempts at murder at the hands of savages instigated 
by the opposing party. He resisted all these and attained 
success by the courage of his convictions. 

The adversaries of Jaures were not contented by using 
all means against his personality in fighting his political 
activities, but went so far as to search into his family life, 



Jean Jaiires 59 

which was known to be pure, and pass mahcious criticism 
upon it. In 1901 the first communion of Miss Madeline 
Jaures furnished them the occasion of airing an important 
incident. Jaures was forced against his wish to publicly 
expose his intimate life in order to clear the misconception 
that began to arise between him and Socialist opinion. 
His reasons were published in the "Petite Republique," a 
newspaper to which he contributed articles since 1893. It 
is a proud and dignified document, which is characteristic 
of this great and good man. Here is an extract : 

"It is about three months since the church press an- 
nounced with marvelous pomp, and full orchestration, that 
I allowed my daughter to take her first communion, that I 
submitted myself to the outrageous and triumphant ridicule 
of certain people and the painful astonishment of some 
others. 

"Our enemies have given to the true facts the most 
calumniating interpretation, adding the most Jesuitic lies. 
They said that this religious act was my voluntary expres- 
sion, my personal conviction, and that I have been guilty 
towards the party of an incredible duplicity. 

"This is a lie ! I have been, since my adolescence, free 
from all rehgion and all dogma. They took advantage of 
the fact that I called the attention of the university inspection 
to certain irregularities in the Congregational schools, in 
order to say that I entrusted the education of my daughter 
to the congregation. 

"I repeat she never had others but secular teachers, 
that she was brought up in a secular school in College 
Sevigne and the Lycee Moliere. She is even now studying 
at the Lycee Moliere. To turn the facts so shamelessly 
it was necessary to employ all the hatred of the Jesuitic 
clericalism. 

"Which is, in fact, the true issue? It is not my person 
only that is involved ; it is the great majority of people 
affected by the same circumstances. How does the problem 
present itself? 

"In the majority of the families of the middle class 
and proletarian Socialists the young girls are neither clerical 
nor free thinkers. On becoming wives and mothers they 
do not expect to lead a life of minute and fanatic devotion. 



6o Jean Jaures 

They disdain the bigotry and horror of intolerance. The 
husband and father does not beheve and does not practice. 
They will not accept for their children a circumscribed 
education ; they desire to remain in contact with the whole 
modern world. They are, tlierefore, not clericals, with 
the exception of a very small number of workingmen or 
middle class men, who have retained the feeling for the i 
Christian belief and Catholic tradition. They have not 
denied religious belief. They have not created for them- 
selves by science or philosophy another conception of the 
universe. They have not, outside of Christianity, all the 
points of support of their moral life. 

"In order not to appear exclusive or intollerant, they 
keep some religious traditions : Ceremonies of marriage, 
birth and death. They are not certain as to the right to 
interrupt, out of consideration for their children, the tra- 
ditions which they themselves have not entirely abandoned. 
The last word of great educators demands that children, 
whether religious or non-religious shall have a free educa- 
tion under the guidance of masters who teach them to think, 
who do not hide from them any of the works of the 
human intellect relating to life and liberty. The 
child learning gradually to exercise control of his con- 
science will either continue or abandon the religious 
traditions. This is the state of the Catholic women of 
France. They are not chained to the order of the church, 
but they are not as yet free from dogma. Imagine one of 
us marrying a girl with a similar bringing up, and after 
ten, fifteen, twenty years of marriage he gets to be, by 
study and research, from an indifferent radical, a very 
ardent revolutionist, a militant in the cause of social justice 
strongly antagonizing the church. Has he the right to give 
no consideration to the faults in the education he accepted 
at the time of his marriage ? Has he the right to break the 
home by violating the transaction which formed the common 
basis of its foundation? 

"This is the problem that presents itself in life to 
nine out of ten of us. And I know that this question the 
majority will answer as I did. But never did I say (here 
lie the ruse of the clericals and their abominable lies) that 
we will abolish the ancient beliefs by violence in the family 



Jean Jaures 6i 

or in the state. I always appealed for a gradual organiza- 
tion of freedom and for the cultivating forces of science 
and reason." 

Jaures has written several books of deep human inter- 
est. Among his early works are : The Reality of the 
Sensible World and The Origin of German Socialism. 
Two philosophical theses — Socialist History of the Revolu- 
tion and The Nezv Army. These are his most important 
publications. They constitute a valuable asset to the cultural 
development of the whole world; nevertheless it is his life 
work for social betterment and the sacrifices he made for 
his ideals that place him among the great immortals. 



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